Fiio M23

The Fiio M23 is an upper mid range Android player built on AKM's flagship two chip combo, the AK4191EQ digital processor and AK4499EX converter, kept in separate digital and analog domains for a cleaner signal path. Amplification comes from a fully balanced THX AAA 78+ stage running eight amplifier paths in parallel.

Like FiiO's flagships, it hides a desktop trick: flip the D.MODE switch, connect a fast charger, and the battery is bypassed while Super High Gain unlocks a full 1000mW per channel balanced.

Type and Technology

The AK4191EQ handles digital filtering and DWA ROUTING ahead of the AK4499EX current output DAC, followed by OPA1612 I/V conversion and OPA1662 voltage gain into the THX AAA 78+ output stage. A four stage, 20 rail power supply isolates digital from analog circuitry, and FiiO's DAPS architecture keeps playback bit perfect across all six operating modes: Android, Pure Music, USB DAC, Bluetooth receiver, AirPlay, and Roon Ready. MQA full decoding, All To DSD, and a 3.5mm coaxial output round out the digital feature set.

Sound Character

The M23 sits between neutral and musical: a touch of warmth, natural timbre, mids with body, clear highs that never turn sharp, and deep, well extended bass. It is often described as a portable take on FiiO's K9 desktop sound, with a slightly energetic tilt that pairs especially well with warmer IEMs and headphones.

Build and Features

The Deep Blue aluminum chassis weighs about 299g and carries a 5.5 inch 1440 x 720 bezel free display, RGB indicator lighting, and a hybrid slide and button volume control. The 5500mAh battery runs about 10.5 hours single ended or 9 hours balanced and supports 30W fast charging. Dual USB C ports separate data from power for the D.MODE desktop switch, storage expands via microSD up to 2TB, an in vehicle mode makes it a tidy car source, and a 10 band EQ handles tuning.

Best For

Listeners who want flagship AKM conversion and THX amplification at a mid tier price. If R2R conversion is more your flavor, the newer Fiio M33 R2R takes a different path; compare both in our DAP collection and the wider Fiio range.

What's in the Box

• Fiio M23 player
• Protective case
• Screen protector (pre installed)
• USB C to USB C cable
• USB A to USB C adapter
• Eject pin
• Quick start guide and warranty card

Specifications